Mercy Mukwereza, a trailblazing female drummer from Zimbabwe, is captivating audiences and critics alike with her distinctive musical approach and unwavering dedication to her craft, establishing herself as a significant force in the contemporary music industry

Growing up as a pastor’s kid, Mercy was surrounded by music and worship, which sparked her interest in drumming. With the guidance of her music leader and pastors, she began her journey, eventually joining Joyfull Praise Choir and collaborating with notable artists like Nisha Ts.

Mercy’s drumming style blends traditional and modern elements, bringing a fresh vibe to the Zimbabwean music scene. Through her music, she aims to spread hope, joy, and confidence, inspiring others to find their rhythm in life.

TR: What inspired you to become a drummer, and how do you balance your passion with the challenges of the music industry?
MM: Being a Pastors Kid, growing up, I have always been around the Praise and Worship setup. Band members would rehearse at home and it only then became an interest to try out. I then started to be trained with the help of the music leader and Pastors who would play during that time. Fast forward, years later, God opened me up to the professional world through Joyfull Praise Choir, where I get my exposure every other day and now Nash TV, together with Nisha Ts are also in the picture.
I have learnt from my Father, Bishop Gamaliel B Madindi, that passion fuels consistency and consistency withstands every other challenge. Yes, days are not always on the smooth road, but when that fire to do more and achieve more still burns from within, nothing can stand in the way of one achieving their dreams.

TR: How is it being a Joyfull Praiser and drumming with other artists.p
MM: Being a Joyfull Praiser, I am growing every other day, spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially, economically, socially and every other “ally” one can encamp. This Empire is more than just about music, but today, many lives, communities and families are being imparted in a significant way.
With Nisha Ts, growth and integration have also been an investment drilled in me. The artist is known and called for the world over, and such exposure in different setups and environments will always foster every form of growth.
My drumming style expands by day. Both ends have helped me to integrate also with great Music Industry Giants, which definitely open up the mind greatly.

TR: How do you think your drumming style contributes to the Zimbabwean music scene, and what message do you hope to convey through your music?
MM: My drumming style being hybrid and robust also with the gentle feminine touch, adds a fresh vibe to the Zimbabwean Music scene.
I shade light, hope, faith, love, confidence and joy. In a world full of challenges and all, someone has to find a reason to live again.

TR: Who are some of your biggest drumming inspirations, and how have they influenced your technique?
MM: Sabu Satsha, Carlton Muparutsa, Obey Mudiwa, Pocket Queen, to mention a few.
From the energy, posture, dynamics and their interpretation of sound and rhythm, they have added significant growth and a build up on my sound.

TR: What advice would you give to young girls in Zimbabwe who are interested in pursuing a career in music, particularly drumming?
MM: Dare to play, build up a constant appetite to be and to do more, love God, love people, ask questions, submit, have your heart in the right place, be the gentle vessel that you are, PLAY.

TR: Have you faced any specific challenges as a female drummer in a male-dominated industry, and if so, how have you overcome them?
MM: Being yourself and functioning within the confines of your identity will help you to fit into the mold, adopt and find means to grow. Honor will earn you more in a short period of time than the actual journey walked, in the words of my Father, Bishop Gamaliel B Madindi.

TR: Can you walk us through your process when approaching a new song or piece? How do you decide on the drum pattern and rhythm?
MM: I listen consecutively to the music, jot down significant sections, try to memorize any repetitive hits and finally play along till I get it right.
As for the drum pattern, the song type decides the type of pattern and from the wells of my inspirations, do I then take out a few elements.

TR: How do you stay current with new developments and trends in drumming, and are there any upcoming projects or performances that you’re excited about?
MM: The Internet has made libraries upon libraries of information, easily accessible. From, records from the past, current and trending ones, you can easily find and learn.
Yes, projects are coming and I am definitely excited!

TR: Do you have any tips for beginner drummers looking to improve their skills, particularly in playing African rhythms?
MM: Be inspired, learn, stay committed, be kind with yourself and you’ll master them.

TR: How do you think drumming can be used as a tool for social change or community building in Zimbabwe?
MM: Drumming is a strong tool to curb any mental health challenges. It releases that adrenaline, it keeps you on your feet and it keeps you around communities of people. Physical health is also something one can gain from drumming.